February 9, 2001

Forum Focuses On Women's Heart Health

INDIANAPOLIS - February is the month for valentines. It's also National Heart Month, a time when women can give themselves the best valentine of all: better cardiovascular health.

That's why the Indiana University School of Medicine National Center of Excellence in Women's Health and Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield are teaming with several local groups to promote health and wellness programs available to women in the Indianapolis and central Indiana area.

"A New Year, A New You" will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Monday, Feb. 26, at the Indianapolis Artsgarden at Circle Center Mall in downtown Indianapolis. Health screenings for bone density, blood pressure, carbon monoxide, nicotine dependence and diabetes will be available, in addition to instructions for breast self-exams and chair massages.

"Cardiovascular disease kills 500,000 women in the United States each year, nearly twice as many lives claimed by all types of cancer," says Center of Excellence Co-director Ann Zerr, M.D., clinical associate professor medicine at IU School of Medicine. "Healthy lifestyles and choices reduce a woman's risk of this illness."

The American Heart Association reports that one in every two deaths is related to heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular conditions. Women 50 and older are at particular risk.

Joining the Center and Anthem as sponsors for the one-day event are Wyeth-Ayerst Pharmaceuticals, Simon Properties and Indianapolis radio stations WZPL and WTPI.

For more information about the health forum, contact Tina Darling at (317) 630-2243.

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